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Cornell Dupree Obituary
Dupree died Sunday at home in Fort Worth. His funeral is set for Friday.
Just out of high school, he went to work in Manhattan with saxophonist King Curtis Ousley, another Fort Worth native.
Dupree, who went on to be a studio player, played guitar on "Respect" by Franklin, "Rainy Night in Georgia" by Brook Benton and "Memphis Soul Stew" by King Curtis.
He toured with Franklin's band from the late 1960s through the mid-1970s.
His son, Cornell Dupree III, tells the Fort Worth Star-Telegram says most people don't know his father, but "there's not too many musicians who don't know him."
Copyright © 2011 The Associated Press
106 Entries
Judy Kelly
October 14, 2024
I knew and was friends with CL when he played for Leon Childs at the infamous White Sands Supper Club on Jacksboro Hwy in 1960 61 ! While playing there C L left to join the King Curtis Band in NYC
I only saw CL one other time when he returned to Ft Worth and was playing a club off Race St in Riverside ! Never again
TH
December 24, 2015
To the Dupree Family, My heartfelt prayers continue to go out for all the families and friends of such an acclaimed and loved person. May the God of all comfort be with you as we await the promises of Isa 65:19 for everyone - "No more will there be heard in her the sound of weeping or a cry of distress.
April 23, 2014
Great player and person. Spritually in tune...and will always be...condolences to all immediate family and friends.
Becky Friend - NYC
How you can show support
Willie Carter
May 5, 2012
Hi, sorry that I just found out today, the family and friends have my prayers that you be comforted as we try to move on in the lost of Mr. Dupree, I remember him as a star from School.
denise jefferson
January 25, 2012
autie i wish i could have been around u all more i loved him so much and i love you seem like there was never time for us to be together but please know that i love u.
Frank Canino
January 22, 2012
I just came across this site. Cornell is a big part of the foundation of who I am as a musician and person. I listen to him almost every day. I am looking forward to celebrating his life with his family and friends at his memorial concert.
Joseph Inskip
June 11, 2011
Saddened at his death but he is free of body now and his music will live for ever. Truly an inspiration and a professional of the highest standards.
william claiborne
May 19, 2011
i learn as a kid how to play listen to ever string a great loss for the music world.
Bennie (Billy) Johnson
May 18, 2011
Cornell (CL) and I were best friends during our childhood growing up in Fort Worth. So many precious memories. May God comfort the family.
Robert Hollie
May 18, 2011
Let it be known that this man as a father figure, art and expressions of life will stand the test of time for me.
Cynthia DeMonte
May 17, 2011
Cornell was a humble genius and a gentle man. He honored us with his music and led an honorable life. To the Dupree family who I met many times but only for a short while, my heart felt condolences. He was a blessing to know and made many of us happy during very turbulent and unhappy times. His music and his kindnesses (along with your family's) will never be forgotten. Cynthia
Franklin M
May 17, 2011
My condolences to the family. Mr. Dupree's talent will be missed.
Please reflect through this musical tribute to Mr. Dupree...
playlist:
http://wruw.org/guide/playlists.php?show_id=29&playlist_id=22362
download at: http://wruw.org/guide/stream.php?stream=29
Nikki San Martino
May 17, 2011
"Much,Peace,Love,Honor and Raspect to the family of Mr. Cornell Dupree Jr.The great talent and works of Mr.Dupree will forever be memories that are legacies of "LOVE".Family,hold your heads up and stay strong.Your sympathy is shared among many music fans.
May 16, 2011
I am a Respiratory Therapist, who recently helped Mr. Dupree with his therapy, during a recent stay at the hospital. The brief time that I spent with him was a joy. He was a kind and obviously modest man. He simply told me that he was a musician who had a great life of music. He didn't mention his many accomplishments. I was saddened to read of his passing. My sympathy and prayers are with his family. God bless.
Rich Jones
May 16, 2011
DEEPEST SYMPATHY.
THE JOHNSON/KELLEY FAMILY
Byron Johnson
May 16, 2011
He played with Donny Hathaway also. He was a great talent!
Dave Millsap
May 16, 2011
Cornell was a big inspiration as a young guitar player growing up in Ft Worth and I will cherish the times we played together on those Ray Sharpe shows , Heart goes out to Irma and the family ... RIP man
Margaret Beard
May 16, 2011
Condolences to the families and friends of Mr. Conrnell Dupree Jr.
What a talent man on the guitar, May you all continue to hold on to great memories forever in your minds and hearts. I am sorry for your great loss, May the God of tender mercies and the God of comfort," 2 Cor 1:1-4 be with you all at this difficult time. -
carla craig
May 16, 2011
when i was little my dad had Cornell records and Areatha we use to dance to them songs he was a good musician
Ron Simmons
May 15, 2011
Circa 1973,I remember my brother and I went to Mikell's located at West 97 Street and Columbus Avenue in New York, few blocks from were we were living. There a really great group called "Encyclopedia of Soul". I told my brother that this group will be very successful. The group became known as Stuff. As a musician, I admired every aspect of every musician. I followed Stuff and Gadd Gang. I have all of their albums. I burned a CD of Stuff and Gadd's Gang last week and was listening to it continuously in my car last week but found out of Cornell's death today from the radio.
When I was a student I was a cab driver, I had the privilege to take Cornell Dupree home on the East Side of Manhattan. Stuff song "Dixie on Top of the Roof" was the dance song for my wife and I bridal party in 1977.
May 15, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Kathleen Kenepp
May 15, 2011
Such musical talent will not be forgotten. Thank you for what you contributed to what "R-E-A-L" music is; not the "instant sound" crap that's called music today.
May 15, 2011
Cornell Dupree has been such an inspiration to me since I first heard him with Areatha and "'bout 4 tablespoons of that fallin' Memphis guitar" w/ King Curtis. I will have a moment of silence for him a my weekly jam session today. R.I.P. Brother Cornell. Harvey "T-Bird" Huck, Joliet, IL
Ben Atkins
May 15, 2011
My musical hero for 45 years. I spent little time with him personally, but that time holds a dear place in my memory, as I was glad to find that the fellow I had admired for his guitar playing and musicality was also admirable (and warm and funny) as a human being.
Rest well
Joe T.
May 15, 2011
Singular and songwise, your Dad was a musician's musician whose work plainly was his joy. To grace the same studios and stages as King Curtis and Aretha Franklin is all the resume any player needed - Curtis was, and Aretha is, perfectionism personified. Remember, please, that your father, today, is not sorrowing -- he is rejoicing with the One Who keeps all the music of the universe in tune and in time. May this be a comfort to you and yours in sad times. Joe T. - an old-time DJ from Boston/Chicago/Los Angeles.
walter matthews
May 14, 2011
I will never forget the first I heard of Mr. Dupree on a Donny Hathaway album. To me your talents will never be forgotten. May God Bless you and you family. RIP my talented Brother.
Walt Matthews.
"Gotta luv that Texas blues!" Me & friends w/Guitar Shorty in concert
Sydney Peritz
May 14, 2011
Donald Ramseur
May 14, 2011
"Rest in peace
Judy Kelly
May 14, 2011
I knew C.L in the days long past. He was in a band at the all night "Sands Supper Club" with "Leon Childs" on Jacksboro Hwy. That was in 1961 or 62. I was a young girl of 17, I remember that C.L. would put his cigarette between the strings of his guitar while he played. I have always remembered that! That was the year that he went onto to New York to join King Curtis. I only saw him one more time after that but I was aware of his outstanding performaces all over. I am saddened at his passing but I am so proud to have know this talented man long before the world came to know him.
Rest in peace my friend and to your "family" may God give you peace in your heart's, he brought so much joy to so many people! God's Blessings on all of you. Thank you to his wife for sharing him with us, it had to have been hard on you!
Judy
"God bless the child who's got his own..."
Sydney Peritz
May 14, 2011
Your father was an extremely talented musician who's music brought much happiness and joy into the world. I grew up listening to many of the recordings he played on. I'm sure his legacy will go on for many more years and continue to enhance people's lives. God bless...Sincerely and sent with my deepest sympathy; Sydney Peritz (keyboardist, San Diego, CA)
C Williams
May 14, 2011
May the God of all comfort grant your family peace at this time. (Psalms 23:4)
Tommy
May 14, 2011
also a member of STUFF, SNL's first house band. Thank you for tweaking the quality of my life all these decades. R.I.P silky fingers.
Paul Hensby
May 14, 2011
Cornell Dupree was the best guitarist of the jazz funk idiom. His album Teasin' opened a whole new world of brilliant musicianship allied to some intangible feeling that was mindblowingly enjoyable to listen to, it was energising, it was addictive. My taste in music changed thanks to Cornell Dupree, and since then any, but any track where he played guitar was guaranteed to be a winner. He will be much missed.
Marilyn Hayes
May 14, 2011
God Bless the Dupree Family on the Loss of their Loved One. Farewell Mr. Dupree you were truly one of Fort Worth's Finest Treasures!
Michael Wilson
May 14, 2011
I am not a musician but I remember Cornell Dupree with the late "great" King Curtis. May he rest in peace.
VERNALYNN MCGEE
May 13, 2011
REST IN PEACE,MR.DUPREE...GOD BLESS...
Henry Mitchell
May 13, 2011
So Sorry To Hear Of Your Loss,
May GOD Sustain You During This Time.
Music Has Lost A Sonic Note!!!!
Sharon
May 13, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with the Dupree family at this difficult time. May you draw comfort from the thought found in Gods word the bible. 2Corinthians 1:3,4 says that ,The God of tender mercies and the God of all comfort. who comfort us in all our tribulation. So may your family gain strength and endurance through the scriptures.
May 13, 2011
When you saw the name "Cornell Dupree" among the list of musicians on a record; you knew it was a mark of quality.
Hans Ruettimann
May 13, 2011
"Cornell Dupree; from Ft. Worth Texas, on the Guitar" (King Curtis - Live at Fillmore West)
The moment I heard this introduction some 35 years back, I was fascinated:
What an awesome guitar player! I then later had the chance to hear and see him play several times live and getting to know him personally as well:
What a privilege!
Thank you so much Cornell; your wonderful music will continue to cheer me up whenever i'm feeling down. RIP!
My deepest condolences to Erma and family; my thoughts are with you in this time of deep sadness.
S. Ford
May 13, 2011
Sincere condolences to the Dupree family. Cornell Dupree was a brilliant guitarist,a master of the art. I will play his music today and be thankful for his gift. Play on, playa
Chuck Burriesci
May 13, 2011
I knew Cornell Dupree guitar playing long before I had the pleasure of spending time with him at the old Lone Star Café during the Who It Is and The Gadd gang era. I remember being upstairs with the bands and both Cornell’s son’s being there. I saw Putt (sp) more as he work with the band if I recall. Anyway, Cornell was always gracious, funny and seemingly always happy to see you. I loved his playing and felt honored to have spent time with him and the others. I regret never playing live with him and am sad at his passing. God’s peace and strength to his family. Sincerely, Chuck Burriesci.
peter
May 13, 2011
R-E-S-P-E-C-T! His gift is God's gift to all of us.
peter cardarelli
May 13, 2011
Always loved his solid playing...his cutting sound..Rest in Peace CD.
Clara Mae Richardson
May 13, 2011
To Irma and family,
The Lord's mercies never cease.
The Lord's compassion never fails.
The Lord's faithfulness never diminishes.
The Lord's Love never fails.
We were so very sadden to hear of the passing of our beloved cousin CL. May God's love and grace comfort your hearts now and in the days to come. We will continue to hold you up in pray.
We Love you,
Clara Richardson & family
denise jefferson
May 13, 2011
auntie i'm so sorry for your lost i have tryed to fine you and uncle i love you both so much its denise in okla city your niece i leaving my number please call me when you see this 405-200-6358 i will keep trying to fine a number for you i love you.
May 13, 2011
To Irma and family
We were so sorry to hear of C.L.'s passing
we shared the musical stage many times here in Fort Worth and other places. May the love of God comfort you and may his richest blessings be yours.
Much Love
Cledus Harrison & family
Mary Hightower
May 13, 2011
Our deepest sorrows are with the Dupree Family in the loss of their loved one. May his spirit be with you when you need it the most. Just remember, "Earth hath no sorrow that heaven canst heal." God be with you.
Tom Smith
May 13, 2011
I pray that the God of all comfort, bring comfort to the family, friends, and fans of Cornell Dupree Jr. God promises a new world where songs and music of joy will be sang and played.
Gail Siegel
May 13, 2011
I'd like to offer my heartfelt condolences to the Dupree family for their loss.
I'm sorry I never got to hear him play live. Cornell will be playing in God's band with the greats that went before him.
Rest In Peace, Cornell Dupree Jr.
maycel sanders
May 13, 2011
Your in a better place ,rest in peace.
Ken & Jewel
May 13, 2011
Cornell Dupree 111, Our condolences to you and your family. The loss of a loved one can severely disrupt your life; and can be emotionally devastating. Draw close to God in prayer, asking for "power beyond what is normal" to endure your trials.-2Cor.4:7
Buck Brossman
May 13, 2011
My condolences. One of my favorite players. I just listened to him the other day with the great King Curtis. I'm sorry I never saw him play live but, he leaves a great legacy. RIP
MARILYN RIVERS
May 13, 2011
TO THE FAMILY, AWESOME , AWESOME, AWESAOME!!!!!! RIP AND PLAY ON IN THAT HEAVENLY BAND ABOVE. THANKS FOR SHARING YOUR LOVE ONE.HE'S SAFE IN THE ARMS OF GOD.
May 13, 2011
So sorry to hear of your loss,but know the God of all comfort be with the family as they grieve . My deepest condolence
Tony D'Agostino
May 13, 2011
To the family of Mr.Dupree,sorry for your loss.
Cornell Dupree's unique style as a guitarist was very subtle but soulful,his phrasing's were smooth and all his own,another great artist gone but won't be forgotten!
Mr.Cornell Dupree Jr. R.I.P.!!!
Jacqueline Gaines
May 13, 2011
To the family of Mr. Cornell Dupree Jr. I have been through what you are going threw now, I can't say I know what you feel, but my heart goes out to you. May God Bless and keep you is my Prayer.
Tommy Nolley
May 13, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with the Dupree Family. God Bless you.
Cornell III, There a lot of us non-musicians who remember your Father and enjoyed listening to him play.
What a wonderful band he is in now!
Tommy Nolley - Austin, TX
SKip Henderson
May 13, 2011
Dupree will be remembered where ever the best soul music is played.
Talents like his are immortal. RIP from New Orleans. Skip Henderson
Bill Sargent
May 13, 2011
Always associated him with great guitar work..he will live on through those who never forget his genius. World is a little less today without him.
Hannah Rhodes
May 13, 2011
Your music will truly be missed. To the entire Dupree family it is my prayer that the Lord surround you with comfort and peace.
Barless Pellichero
May 13, 2011
From one guitarist to another, thanks for many years of amazing R&B guitar. Cornell Dupree had it in the pocket. You will be missed
Shirley Griffin
May 13, 2011
May God provide the family of Cornell Dupree with Peace as you go through this time of grief.
B.P.
May 13, 2011
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
marty jourard
May 12, 2011
Yes, musicians knew who Cornell Dupree was...I'm a musician and I know he was a brilliant guitarist...his work with Aretha alone proved he was a master...
Janice Brown
May 12, 2011
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Willlie Mumphrey
May 12, 2011
I was blessed to see Mr. Dupree at Sundance Square in Fort Worth several years ago. I walked the same storied halls at I. M. Terrell where he attended school. He was my idol.
Michael Butts
May 12, 2011
Many have grown to the sounds of his guitar, not realizing who was playing, but immortal through the music he will be forever. RIP Mr. Dupree, that band beyond the Pearly Gates is waiting for another six strings in the lineup.
May 12, 2011
My dear cousin I wish we would have had the chance to get together when you moved back we talked about getting together, I guess the only way that is going to happen now is when I come to Heaven to join you. I remember being little and you letting me play the gitar, that really made my day. It is sad that the only time some family members meet is after someone special go home to be with God. I still love you and look up to you as I did as a little kid. Family if I can do anything for you please let me know.
Your Cousin
Charles Richarson.
Alice Youngblood
May 12, 2011
We were so sorry to hear of the loss of your loved one. We're sending you a hug from afar.
andrew sanchez
May 12, 2011
sorry about your dad i enjoyed his gitar playing for years he will be missed.
Karen Davis
May 12, 2011
I especially loved the guitar piece in Rainy Night in Georgia. My condolences are extended to the Cornell Dupree, Jr. Family. May you RIP.
Julie Massengale Tate
May 12, 2011
Thank you for all the GREAT music you made, Mr. Dupree. You are now in the most wonderful of bands. RIP.
R Golay
May 12, 2011
To the the family of Cornell Dupree, Jr. - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow, I know that Cornell will be missed by many.
Luvbyrd
May 12, 2011
mAY THE light you LEAVE IN THIS wORLD sHINE fOreVER!!! You will be Missed
Luvbyrd in Manchester
May 12, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
C Harper
May 12, 2011
Thank you cornell for the many guitar lessions rest in peace
john lewis
May 12, 2011
he's where all men are brothers now
Peter Harmen Burke
May 12, 2011
R.I.P. Cornell now you can jam with those who have gone before you ,.and what a jam session that will be ,.,.
Victoria&Andrew VZj
May 12, 2011
Rock Blues & soul music
Aretha on SoulTrain..
Having Cornell tour
with many
more Icon Favorites'
Our sentiments of
condolences
He will be in memory
To many of his Friends.
Upon the Music Legacy~
Much thanks music
associates out of the
BayArea & record label
industries..
Rest in peace
Cornell Dupree.J.R.
Paul K
May 12, 2011
May God bring all of Cornell's loved ones peace in this difficult timePaul
Ervin (Miller) Reeves
May 12, 2011
You are gone now, but may your music live forever.
Gracie Pulido
May 12, 2011
Rest In Peace! Going to miss you.
Lissa Hattersley
May 12, 2011
Cornell Dupree, a wonderful musician and a kind soul who always left some room for the other guy on stage, deserves all the accolades and respect. My sincere condolences to Erma and family.
"sweet Liss" from NYC
Rosilin Dupree
May 12, 2011
My “Dad” was a wonderful man who truly cherished his family and his music. His music brought joy to my life. God desired a magnificent musician and he found one. “Dad”, you will truly be missed in mind, body and soul. You have my deepest sympathy. Love Always, Rosilin
Neil Mehra
May 12, 2011
I was so inspired all my life by your playing , Cornell. Thank you. My deepest sympathies to the family.
Chuck Voellinger
May 12, 2011
My condolences. Truly a great musician who I love to listen to. Sad to hear of this and my thoughts are with his family.
Michael J Dohoney
May 12, 2011
Erma & Family,
As one of the many musicians of Fort Worth, I just want to tell you how much we love your precious CL. He lives on in his music and in the inspiration he passed on to the players from Fort Worth and around the world. God keep you & comfort you in this time of passing. Know that we are with you in our thoughts and prayers.
Eric McIntosh
May 12, 2011
Legend in his own right and one of the best session guitarist to have played, my deepest respect!
Brenda Kindles
May 12, 2011
I want to thank you for being a good Brother in law and good to Erma all of these years and love your music and may God take care of your family...
pinkie holmes
May 12, 2011
With deepest sympathy & love, Dupree was a gentle soul.
Rest in peace our brother. Sherman & Pinkie Holmes
Ray Duke
May 12, 2011
Thank you for the music. You were and still are one of the greats. My sincere condolences to the Dupree family.
Willie Carter
May 11, 2011
Thanks for your music, I suppose that a Guitarist was need in Heaven.
Willie Felix Carter
Candidate for President of the United States of America 2012, and
Lead Guitarist for the Sunshine Band of the First Jurisdiction Church of God in Christ, Southern California.
Sharon & George Slater
May 11, 2011
My condolences to the Family..My friends, I've been missing for so long, I am truly sad to hear about CL , You guy's are in my prays. God Bless You All.
May 11, 2011
To A good and along time Friend may GOD BLESS your FAMILY,OSCAR SPRUIELL
Catherine Joshua
May 11, 2011
My condolences goes out to the Family...I only got to meet you for a short time when he was my patient at THR-Fort Worth..my Prayers are with you, May God Bless You All.
May 11, 2011
I would like to express to the family, who grieve today, that we sympathize in your loss, and remind you your loss is HEAVENS gain, Praying for peace at this time God Bless Rose M. Walker
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